A significant fine handed down to a truck operator this week has prompted calls for the government to better regulate truckies working conditions, and to stop blocking a UN protocol on long work hours.

A new poll shows two thirds of New Zealanders are wary of a Trans Pacific Partnership that has rules allowing corporations to sue governments.

The government’s lack of any plan for jobs has been laid bare this morning, FIRST Union said today.

The union for forest and wood processing workers says new safety standards released today are missing a vital ingredient – worker participation.

FIRST Union says that while there may be a bit of leeway for getting physical on the rugby field, there is no place for it in the workplace and that shop workers should be treated with respect by both customers and management.

“Retail staff head into the Christmas season knowing it will be more difficult and stressful,” said FIRST Union Retail Sector Secretary Maxine Gay. “The number of abusive incidents increases dramatically as the shops are busier and customers are under pressure.”

After six months of bargaining, NZ Bus drivers have voted to ratify a new collective agreement and are welcoming the company’s commitment to a culture change in the organisation.